Duart castle

Standing on the Isle of Mull, the West coast of Scotland, Duart castle is one of the oldest ones that can still be seen in almost the same shape as it was after the restoration in 1912.

Today, the castle is home to Sir Lalchan MacLean, the 28th earl to the family. Initially built by Clan MacDougall during the 13th century, it became home to Clan MacLean in the coming century due to some political circumstances. The castle saw its first major conflict when Argyll attacked it but was defeated. The 9th earl of Argyll retattacked it in 1678 and conquered it this time. Sir John MacLearn surrendered it in 1691 to Clan Campbell. The castle was abandoned in 1751 with many broken parts.

The restoration of Duart castle began in 1911, when Sir Fitzroy Donald Maclean, the 26th Earl bought it again. He restored it and a great clan gathering took place on the 24th August to celebrate its completion. Today, the castle remains open from April to October and many gatherings and events such as weddings, outdoor theaters, and military-enhancements take place there.